Don’t look behind you! There’s someone else waiting for your job!
In today’s world, there is no such thing as job security. The only way to have a chance at remaining with your current employer for any length of time is to make sure you continually update your skills. Whether it’s taking some computer training classes to improve your technical skills, computer-based training online through the local community college, or company programs to improve your skills.
The best thing you can do in preparation for updating your work skills is to talk to your supervisor about advancement opportunities within the company. Ask, “Is there anything I could be doing to improve quality or production? I’m interested in stretching myself, taking on new challenges, preparing myself for any advancement opportunities that may arise. Can you recommend any specific software programs I should be learning? Is there any other computer training or skills training I should be getting in order to make myself more useful in the workplace?”
Inquire about any computer-based training that the company may offer for its employees. Ask to be put on the list for the next session.
If the direct approach doesn’t work, try GOSPL. According to employment specialists, it’s a good idea for all workers to know the GOSPL, things you can do in the course of figuring out how and in which direction to expand your skill set:
Gossip.
Get to know your coworkers and what they are doing on the job. Talk to them at the water cooler. Go to lunch with them. Find out what each of them does on the job and what software programs they use. This will let you know where you stand and what computer training you may need to pursue.
Organize.
If there is no organizational chart available for you to see where you fit into the scheme of things, try to create your own based on what you have learned from your coworkers and your own research into the company’s operations. Once you see how your employer has organized their company, you can begin to figure out how to organize yourself for future employment within the company.
Scheme.
Keep an eagle eye on those workers above you who may be preparing to jump ship or whose poor performance may cause them to lose their jobs. If you can identify a position that you think might be vacant soon, find out as much about it as you can so you can begin to prepare to move into that job. This is another way to get some ideas of computer-based training you may want to schedule to prepare you in advance for the possible opening.
Plan.
Form a plan for where you want to be in six months, one year, five years, etc. In this plan, you are looking for continual advancement to positions requiring more responsibility in return for more pay.
Learn.
Make a list of software programs you need to learn for each promotion you hope to achieve. Then, get the computer training you need.
Computer-based training is available from a wide range of sources, including your local community college. A faster and often more enjoyable way is to take online computer training courses in software, or to buy computer-based training discs that are delivered to your home by postal service.
Online computer-based training and tutorial discs have the advantage of allowing you to learn at your own pace in the privacy of your own home.
In addition to brushing up on your existing skills or learning new ones, it’s also a good idea to examine your work ethic and attitude. Improving your work skills won’t help much if nobody wants to work with you. To be successful on the job or on the job hunt, an upbeat attitude is paramount. Ask for a referral to a psychologist or other therapist if you need someone to listen while you unload your troubles and get back on track.
